Countryfile presenter Adam Henson recently shared a touching story about the arrival of a new family member that initially sparked concern. In his book, *Christmas on the Farm*, he recounted a Christmas when he faced the challenge of finding the perfect gift for his wife, Charlie Henson. This quest led him to a farm where the owner was looking to sell a litter of kittens. Despite the family’s previous decision not to adopt another cat after losing their beloved pet, Percy, Adam felt compelled to bring home a kitten.
During his visit, the farmer offered Adam a cat if he could catch one. After some struggle with the hesitant kittens, he successfully caught one but quickly realized she was in poor health. “She was sneezy and her little tummy was bloated; she was a sad spectacle,” Adam wrote. The farmer expressed concern that the small cat might not survive, yet Adam decided to take her home, stopping for emergency supplies along the way.
Once home, Adam presented the kitten to Charlie, who had mixed feelings. “Much as she loves cats, she was worried about this sad, sneezy little specimen – I’d potentially brought home a lot of heartache for her and the kids,” he explained. This moment of uncertainty gave way to regret for Adam, especially when the farm vet visited later that day.
Despite the kitten’s rocky start, she blossomed into a beautiful, fluffy cat named Twiglet. Adam noted that, although he is a self-professed “dog person,” Twiglet quickly became the family’s favorite Christmas present. This new addition came at the right time, with Alfie aged six and Ella aged ten, allowing the children to bond with the kitten.
Twiglet adapted well to life on the family’s farm in Gloucestershire, eventually having two litters of kittens of her own. One of these kittens, named Frank, remained with the family, further enriching their lives.
As he prepares to return to screens in *Countryfile’s A Cornish Christmas* on December 21, 2023, Adam reflects on how the decision to bring Twiglet into their home turned out to be a rewarding and heartwarming choice, despite his initial fears. The family’s love for their new pet has underscored the joy that can come from unexpected circumstances.
